The Online News Act aims to create a fairer digital news market in Canada. It focuses on the relationship between online platforms (like social media and search engines) and news businesses. The goal is to support the creation of Canadian news, especially local news. The Act does not apply to messaging services used for private communication. It recognizes the importance of freedom of expression and the independence of journalists.
The Act requires the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) to keep a list of online platforms that must follow the rules. These platforms may need to make deals with news businesses to pay them for using their news content. The CRTC can exempt a platform from the rules if it already has deals that meet certain standards, like providing fair pay to news businesses and supporting local news. There's a process for news businesses and platforms to bargain and make agreements.
There's also a way for the CRTC to handle disagreements. The CRTC will create a code of conduct for bargaining. Platforms are not allowed to treat news businesses unfairly. The CRTC can make platforms give them information and can fine them for breaking the rules. An independent auditor will look at how the Act is affecting the news market each year. The Minister of Canadian Heritage will review the Act within five years.
The Act also makes some changes to other laws, like the Access to Information Act and the Broadcasting Act. The government can make new rules to help carry out the Act. The Act will come into effect at different times, as decided by the government.
Jobs
This bill aims to sustain Canadian news businesses, including independent local ones. By making sure news companies are paid fairly for their work, it helps them to stay in business and keep journalists employed. This is especially important for local news, which can struggle to compete with big online platforms.
Taxation
The bill references the definition of "qualified Canadian journalism organization" as defined in the Income Tax Act, indicating a link to existing tax regulations related to journalism.
Spending
The Act allows the CRTC to collect fees from online platforms and news businesses for providing services under this Act. The Commission may spend revenues that are received for the purposes of exercising its powers and carrying out its duties and functions under this Act.